From the Manila Times (May 30, 2019): MILF rebels to get financial help
While kin of police commandos brutally killed by the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in Mamasapano, Maguindanao continue to demand justice, the Duterte government is proposing to provide P100,000 in cash to each of the 12,000 MILF guerrillas as a gesture of goodwill and as part of the peace process.
According to reports, Presidential Peace Adviser Carlito Galvez said the proposed financial aid would cover MILF fighters who surrendered their weapons as part of the decommissioning process, although there is no provision in the peace deal that the government will pay for guns collected from the rebel group.
The funds, the reports claimed, would come from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity, which Galvez heads. About P1.2 billion is needed to pay off the MILF members, who will also be provided with livelihood skills training to help them integrate into mainstream society.
Families of those who died demanded that rebel leader Murad Ebrahim, now Chief Minister of the Muslim autonomous region, surrender those behind the gruesome murders.
The commandos, members of the Special Action Force (SAF), were sent on a clandestine mission deep inside MILF territory in Barangay Tukanalipao on Jan. 25, 2015 to capture Malaysian bomber Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan.
Marwan surived the attack, but was eventually killed. Commandos cut off his finger for DNA analysis.
The elite group was on its way to rejoin more than 300 SAF commandos when it was attacked by MILF forces aided by BIFF militants, sparking daylong clashes. At least 18 MILF and five BIFF militants were killed in the fierce fighting that the Aquino government originally claimed was a misencounter.
Barely a month after the fighting, the MILF surrendered at least 16 automatic weapons it took from slain police commandos. The surrender of the weapons further bolstered reports of lawmakers and human rights groups that MILF rebels had finished off wounded commandos and collected their guns.
The weapons were handed over to the police, but SAF sources claimed the weapons had been tampered and that many of the parts were either taken out or replaced with defective mechanisms.
Because of the killings, lawmakers shelved the Bangasamoro Basic Law (BBL) until investigations into the deadly clashes between SAF and the MILF were completed.
The BBL was eventually passed, but families of the slain commandos were still crying out for justice.
The MILF said it would not surrender those involved in the killings.
Thursday, May 30, 2019
Malaysian among three suspected IS militants arrested after anti-terror swoops
From The Star Online (May 30, 2019): Malaysian among three suspected IS militants arrested after anti-terror swoops
KUALA LUMPUR: Three suspected Islamic State (IS) militants have been detained following anti-terror swoops in three states, says Datuk Seri Abdul Hamid Bador.
The Inspector-General of Police said the three men - a local, an Indonesian and a Bangladeshi - were nabbed by the Counter Terrorism Division (E8) between May 17 and 30 in Selangor, Kedah and Sabah.
"A 42-year-old Malaysian contractor was the first arrest made at KLIA on May 17.
"He was planning to head to Egypt to join the Sinai's IS cell before securing safe passage to head to Syria," Abdul Hamid said in a statement Thursday (May 30).
Since last year, the suspect had performed the "bai'ah" (oath of allegiance) to IS supremo Abu Bakar Al-Baghdadi twice via Facebook, he added.
"The suspect is a staunch believer in the Salafi Jihadi teachings, so much so that he has rejected the parliamentary democracy system.
"He does not recognise the Malaysian government and any religious organisations," he said, adding that the suspect believed that any Muslims who took part in the nation's elections could be killed as well."
The country's top cop said the next arrest was a 20-year-old Indonesian man, who is believed to have been a facilitator for Indonesian IS militants, who transited in Sabah before heading to southern Philippines to launch suicide bombings.
"The suspect was arrested in Keningau, Sabah, on May 26. He was a labourer and had performed the bai'ah to Abu Bakar as well.
"He has also channelled funds to the Maute terror group in southern Philippines and he was planning to head to Syria soon," Abdul Hamid said.
The last arrest was a 28-year-old Bangladeshi in Kuala Kedah, on May 30.
"He was working as an assistant mechanic on a ship.
"He also possessed the necessary chemicals and expertise to produce Improvised Explosive Devices (IED)," Abdul Hamid said.
He said the E8 is also looking for another Indonesian suspect, identified as Marwan, who escaped during the raid in Keningau on May 26.
"The suspect is in his 30s and his last known address is at Kampung Keritan Laut in Keningau," he said.
The IGP urged anyone with information to contact E8 investigating officer Insp Mohd Razizuan Mohd Razali at 017-3278435 or any nearest police station.
"Stern action will be taken against anyone who harbours this fugitive," he said.
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2019/05/30/malaysian-among-three-suspected-is-militants-arrested-after-anti-terror-swoops/
The Inspector-General of Police said the three men - a local, an Indonesian and a Bangladeshi - were nabbed by the Counter Terrorism Division (E8) between May 17 and 30 in Selangor, Kedah and Sabah.
"A 42-year-old Malaysian contractor was the first arrest made at KLIA on May 17.
"He was planning to head to Egypt to join the Sinai's IS cell before securing safe passage to head to Syria," Abdul Hamid said in a statement Thursday (May 30).
Since last year, the suspect had performed the "bai'ah" (oath of allegiance) to IS supremo Abu Bakar Al-Baghdadi twice via Facebook, he added.
"The suspect is a staunch believer in the Salafi Jihadi teachings, so much so that he has rejected the parliamentary democracy system.
"He does not recognise the Malaysian government and any religious organisations," he said, adding that the suspect believed that any Muslims who took part in the nation's elections could be killed as well."
The country's top cop said the next arrest was a 20-year-old Indonesian man, who is believed to have been a facilitator for Indonesian IS militants, who transited in Sabah before heading to southern Philippines to launch suicide bombings.
"The suspect was arrested in Keningau, Sabah, on May 26. He was a labourer and had performed the bai'ah to Abu Bakar as well.
"He has also channelled funds to the Maute terror group in southern Philippines and he was planning to head to Syria soon," Abdul Hamid said.
The last arrest was a 28-year-old Bangladeshi in Kuala Kedah, on May 30.
"He was working as an assistant mechanic on a ship.
"He also possessed the necessary chemicals and expertise to produce Improvised Explosive Devices (IED)," Abdul Hamid said.
He said the E8 is also looking for another Indonesian suspect, identified as Marwan, who escaped during the raid in Keningau on May 26.
"The suspect is in his 30s and his last known address is at Kampung Keritan Laut in Keningau," he said.
The IGP urged anyone with information to contact E8 investigating officer Insp Mohd Razizuan Mohd Razali at 017-3278435 or any nearest police station.
"Stern action will be taken against anyone who harbours this fugitive," he said.
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2019/05/30/malaysian-among-three-suspected-is-militants-arrested-after-anti-terror-swoops/
Malaysia arrests three Islamic State terror suspects
Posted to the South China Morning Post (May 30, 2019): Malaysia arrests three Islamic State terror suspects (By Amy Chew)
The suspects, which include a Malaysian citizen who believes Muslims taking part in democratic elections should be killed, were detained in a swoop operation, police said
The suspects – from Malaysia, Indonesia and Bangladesh – were detained in a swoop operation conducted between May 17 and 30, said Police Inspector-General Abdul Hamid Bador.
The Malaysian suspect, a 42-year-old contractor, was arrested at Kuala Lumpur’s international airport as he was departing for Egypt to join an Isis affiliate group.
A suspect being arrested. Photo: Special Branch Counter-terrorism Unit, Royal Malaysian Police
“The suspect was going to Egypt to join IS Sinai, and from [there], slip into Syria,” said Bador.
“The suspect is a firm believer of Salafi Jihadism [and] rejects the democratic and parliamentary system. He does not recognise the Malaysian government and its religious institutions, which he labels as ‘infidels’.
Terror plot by Islamic State ‘wolf pack’ in Malaysia foiled, police say
The suspect – who had pledged baiah (allegiance) to Isis leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi twice on Facebook – also believes Muslims who participate in democratic elections are infidels who are “permitted to be killed”, Bador said.
Although it receives less attention than Isis franchise groups in places such as Libya and Afghanistan, the Isis affiliate in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula poses a major threat to regional stability, according to the think tank The Soufan Center.
Counterterrorism officers with Isis suspects. Photo: Special Branch Counter-Terrorism Unit, Royal Malaysian Police
The second suspect, a 20-year-old Indonesian labourer, is believed to have helped Indonesian Isis members to travel to southern Philippines, where they planned to carry out suicide bombings, via Sabah.
He allegedly channelled funds to the Filipino pro-Isis Maute Group, which laid siege to Marawi City in southern Philippines for five months in 2017. The siege, which killed more than 1,000 people, was the most serious Isis assault in Southeast Asia.Mothers wearing bombs, killing their own children: today’s terror threat
“The suspect, a labourer, pledged allegiance to Abu Bakar al-Baghdadi, leader of Islamic State, via the Telegram [mobile] application,” Bador said.
The suspect also wanted to wage jihad in Syria. He was arrested in Keningau, Sabah state.
Counterterrorism officers with an Isis suspect. Photo: Special Branch Counter-Terrorism Unit, Royal Malaysian Police
The third suspect, a 28-year-old Bangladeshi mechanical assistant who was arrested in Kedah state, is believed to support the Bangladesh arm of Isis.
He is also suspected to possess chemicals and the ability to assemble improvised explosive devices.
Meanwhile, Malaysian police are searching for another Indonesian suspect named Marwan, who allegedly helped Isis members to travel to southern Philippines via Sabah state.
Sabah has long been a jumping-off point for jihadists travelling to the Philippines.
The suspects, which include a Malaysian citizen who believes Muslims taking part in democratic elections should be killed, were detained in a swoop operation, police said
The suspects were from Malaysia, Indonesia and Bangladesh. Photo: Special Branch Counter-Terrorism Unit, Royal Malaysian Police
Malaysia’s counterterrorism officers this month arrested three Islamic State terror suspects, including a Malaysian national who rejects the country’s government and believes Muslims who take part in democratic elections are infidels, police said on Thursday.
Malaysia’s counterterrorism officers this month arrested three Islamic State terror suspects, including a Malaysian national who rejects the country’s government and believes Muslims who take part in democratic elections are infidels, police said on Thursday.
The suspects – from Malaysia, Indonesia and Bangladesh – were detained in a swoop operation conducted between May 17 and 30, said Police Inspector-General Abdul Hamid Bador.
The Malaysian suspect, a 42-year-old contractor, was arrested at Kuala Lumpur’s international airport as he was departing for Egypt to join an Isis affiliate group.
A suspect being arrested. Photo: Special Branch Counter-terrorism Unit, Royal Malaysian Police
“The suspect was going to Egypt to join IS Sinai, and from [there], slip into Syria,” said Bador.
“The suspect is a firm believer of Salafi Jihadism [and] rejects the democratic and parliamentary system. He does not recognise the Malaysian government and its religious institutions, which he labels as ‘infidels’.
Terror plot by Islamic State ‘wolf pack’ in Malaysia foiled, police say
The suspect – who had pledged baiah (allegiance) to Isis leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi twice on Facebook – also believes Muslims who participate in democratic elections are infidels who are “permitted to be killed”, Bador said.
Although it receives less attention than Isis franchise groups in places such as Libya and Afghanistan, the Isis affiliate in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula poses a major threat to regional stability, according to the think tank The Soufan Center.
Counterterrorism officers with Isis suspects. Photo: Special Branch Counter-Terrorism Unit, Royal Malaysian Police
The second suspect, a 20-year-old Indonesian labourer, is believed to have helped Indonesian Isis members to travel to southern Philippines, where they planned to carry out suicide bombings, via Sabah.
He allegedly channelled funds to the Filipino pro-Isis Maute Group, which laid siege to Marawi City in southern Philippines for five months in 2017. The siege, which killed more than 1,000 people, was the most serious Isis assault in Southeast Asia.Mothers wearing bombs, killing their own children: today’s terror threat
“The suspect, a labourer, pledged allegiance to Abu Bakar al-Baghdadi, leader of Islamic State, via the Telegram [mobile] application,” Bador said.
The suspect also wanted to wage jihad in Syria. He was arrested in Keningau, Sabah state.
Counterterrorism officers with an Isis suspect. Photo: Special Branch Counter-Terrorism Unit, Royal Malaysian Police
The third suspect, a 28-year-old Bangladeshi mechanical assistant who was arrested in Kedah state, is believed to support the Bangladesh arm of Isis.
He is also suspected to possess chemicals and the ability to assemble improvised explosive devices.
Meanwhile, Malaysian police are searching for another Indonesian suspect named Marwan, who allegedly helped Isis members to travel to southern Philippines via Sabah state.
Sabah has long been a jumping-off point for jihadists travelling to the Philippines.
Army drive puts pressure on Abu Sayyaf in Sulu
From the Manila Bulletin (May 30, 2019): Army drive puts pressure on Abu Sayyaf in Sulu
ZAMBOANGA CITY–The Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) on Thursday said the Abu Sayyaf has been worn out by the relentless offensive launched by the military in Sulu since May 25.
Western Mindanao Command (MANILA BULLETIN)
Joint Task Force Sulu Commander Brig Gen. Rey Pabayo Jr. said the series of surgical operations launched by the military since last week had caused severe casualties to the group.
WestMinCom said that Thursday last week troops from the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion fought an estimated 50 Abu Sayyaf fighters under Sawadjaan in Barangay Buhanginan.
After the encounter, soldiers saw blood stains in the engagement site, indicating casualties suffered by the enemy.
A soldier with a minor wound was airlifted to Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City.
On Saturday afternoon, four Abu Sayyaf militants were killed and six others were wounded in a 30-minute skirmish with troops from 13th Special Forces Company who were after the group of Mundi Sawadjaan in Barangay Igasan, Patikul.
Two more Abu Sayyaf died and another was wounded in successive operations of the 13th SFC in Barangay Igasan on the same day.
Soldiers from 5th SRBalso engaged Sawadjaan’s group in Barangay Sandah, Patikul Monday afternoon, killing a militant and wounding four others in a 30-minute battle.
The WestMinCom commander, Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega said, “JTF Sulu troops intensify their campaign of hunting and running down Abu Sayyaf terrorists through sustained operations, intelligence build-up, and cooperation with the Suluanons on the ground.”
“These actions will be furthered to defeat terrorism by eliminating the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu, ” Dela Vega said.
ZAMBOANGA CITY–The Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) on Thursday said the Abu Sayyaf has been worn out by the relentless offensive launched by the military in Sulu since May 25.
Western Mindanao Command (MANILA BULLETIN)
Joint Task Force Sulu Commander Brig Gen. Rey Pabayo Jr. said the series of surgical operations launched by the military since last week had caused severe casualties to the group.
WestMinCom said that Thursday last week troops from the 5th Scout Ranger Battalion fought an estimated 50 Abu Sayyaf fighters under Sawadjaan in Barangay Buhanginan.
After the encounter, soldiers saw blood stains in the engagement site, indicating casualties suffered by the enemy.
A soldier with a minor wound was airlifted to Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City.
On Saturday afternoon, four Abu Sayyaf militants were killed and six others were wounded in a 30-minute skirmish with troops from 13th Special Forces Company who were after the group of Mundi Sawadjaan in Barangay Igasan, Patikul.
Two more Abu Sayyaf died and another was wounded in successive operations of the 13th SFC in Barangay Igasan on the same day.
Soldiers from 5th SRBalso engaged Sawadjaan’s group in Barangay Sandah, Patikul Monday afternoon, killing a militant and wounding four others in a 30-minute battle.
The WestMinCom commander, Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega said, “JTF Sulu troops intensify their campaign of hunting and running down Abu Sayyaf terrorists through sustained operations, intelligence build-up, and cooperation with the Suluanons on the ground.”
“These actions will be furthered to defeat terrorism by eliminating the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu, ” Dela Vega said.
Medalya ng Kabayanihan for 5 SAF commanders
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (May 30, 2019): Medalya ng Kabayanihan for 5 SAF commanders
Five commanders of the police Special Action Force (SAF) that helped the military liberate Marawi City from a terrorist siege by Islamic State (IS)-inspired terror groups in May 2017 have been conferred the Medalya ng Kabayanihan by the National Police Commission (Napolcom).
In a statement on Wednesday, Rogelio Casurao, executive officer of the Napolcom, said the medals were awarded to Police Lt. Col. Rex Arvin T. Malimban, Lt. Col. Lambert A. Suerte, Lt. Col. Jack Echman A. Angog, Lt. Col. Mario L. Mayames Jr. and Lt. Col. Ledon D. Monte.
The Medalya ng Kabayanihan, or Distinguished Conduct Medal, was awarded to the officers “in recognition of their conspicuous courage and gallantry in the face of armed enemies, where they performed the most crucial role as leaders and commanders of the (SAF) troopers during the Marawi City crisis.”
In a statement on Wednesday, Rogelio Casurao, executive officer of the Napolcom, said the medals were awarded to Police Lt. Col. Rex Arvin T. Malimban, Lt. Col. Lambert A. Suerte, Lt. Col. Jack Echman A. Angog, Lt. Col. Mario L. Mayames Jr. and Lt. Col. Ledon D. Monte.
The Medalya ng Kabayanihan, or Distinguished Conduct Medal, was awarded to the officers “in recognition of their conspicuous courage and gallantry in the face of armed enemies, where they performed the most crucial role as leaders and commanders of the (SAF) troopers during the Marawi City crisis.”
Casurao said the children of the five awardees would be granted educational scholarships under the Reward Education Assistance Program of the Philippine National Police.
The Napolcom also approved the promotion to the next rank of another 57 policemen for “demonstrating acts of conspicuous courage and gallantry in action at the risk of their lives, above and beyond the call of duty” in the government offensives against the Abu Sayyaf and Maute Group fighters who attempted to establish an IS caliphate in Marawi City.
The Napolcom previously confirmed the special promotion to the next rank of 745 policemen in May 2018 and another batch of 75 police officers in February who all took part in liberating Marawi.
“Their heroic acts resulted in the neutralization of 920 local terrorist group members including their leaders, [Isnilon] Hapilon and the Maute brothers; the rescue of 1,777 hostages; and the recovery of 479 … guns, several rounds of ammunition, and ordnance and improvised explosive devices,” the Napolcom statement read.
The Napolcom also approved the promotion to the next rank of another 57 policemen for “demonstrating acts of conspicuous courage and gallantry in action at the risk of their lives, above and beyond the call of duty” in the government offensives against the Abu Sayyaf and Maute Group fighters who attempted to establish an IS caliphate in Marawi City.
The Napolcom previously confirmed the special promotion to the next rank of 745 policemen in May 2018 and another batch of 75 police officers in February who all took part in liberating Marawi.
“Their heroic acts resulted in the neutralization of 920 local terrorist group members including their leaders, [Isnilon] Hapilon and the Maute brothers; the rescue of 1,777 hostages; and the recovery of 479 … guns, several rounds of ammunition, and ordnance and improvised explosive devices,” the Napolcom statement read.
1 NPA member killed, firearms recovered after eastern Samar clash with military
From GMA News Online (May 31,2019): 1 NPA member killed, firearms recovered after eastern Samar clash with military
A member of the New People's Army was killed in a shootout while firearms and subversive documents were recovered by the military early Thursday morning.
Soldiers from the 14th Infantry Battalion were conducting an operation, overrun an NPA camp in Sitio Bagong Barrio, Barangay Pinanag-an, Borongan in eastern Samar at about 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, the military said in a statement.
The government forces recovered one .357 magnum with four live ammunition, one improvised explosive device (IED), two magazines for AK-47, two rifle grenades, one M203 ammunition, 15 backpacks, assorted medicines, three blasting caps, five cellular phones, one detonator or bomb switch, assorted ammunition for AK-47, M16, Garand rifles, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.
A member of the New People's Army was killed in a shootout while firearms and subversive documents were recovered by the military early Thursday morning.
Soldiers from the 14th Infantry Battalion were conducting an operation, overrun an NPA camp in Sitio Bagong Barrio, Barangay Pinanag-an, Borongan in eastern Samar at about 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, the military said in a statement.
The government forces recovered one .357 magnum with four live ammunition, one improvised explosive device (IED), two magazines for AK-47, two rifle grenades, one M203 ammunition, 15 backpacks, assorted medicines, three blasting caps, five cellular phones, one detonator or bomb switch, assorted ammunition for AK-47, M16, Garand rifles, and subversive documents with high intelligence value.
No one was injured among the government troops.
The military attributed the discovery of the camp to the residents in the area.
Maj. Gen. Raul M. Farnacio, Commander, 8th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force STORM believed that the NPAs are on the run since the Army launched its relentless internal security operations in the far-flung communities influenced by the terrorists.
"Ito ay nagpapatunay na epektibo ang mga ginagawang mga programa at hakbang ng ating mga kasundalohan sa tulong na rin ng ating mga kababayan upang matigil na ang pananamantala, pag-impluwensiya ng mga rebeldeng NPA sa mga liblib na kanayunan sa rehiyon," said Farnacio.
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/696192/1-npa-member-killed-firearms-recovered-after-eastern-samar-clash-with-military/story/
The military attributed the discovery of the camp to the residents in the area.
Maj. Gen. Raul M. Farnacio, Commander, 8th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force STORM believed that the NPAs are on the run since the Army launched its relentless internal security operations in the far-flung communities influenced by the terrorists.
"Ito ay nagpapatunay na epektibo ang mga ginagawang mga programa at hakbang ng ating mga kasundalohan sa tulong na rin ng ating mga kababayan upang matigil na ang pananamantala, pag-impluwensiya ng mga rebeldeng NPA sa mga liblib na kanayunan sa rehiyon," said Farnacio.
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/regions/696192/1-npa-member-killed-firearms-recovered-after-eastern-samar-clash-with-military/story/
MILF: Displaced Families in Basilan Receive Aid from ICRC
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (May 29): Displaced Families in Basilan Receive Aid from ICRC
GENERAL SANTOS CITY– To address the needs of the displaced families in Basilan brought about by armed conflict between state security forces and lawless elements in Basilan, the ICRC provided them assistance through the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on May 25.
Each family received 25 kilograms of rice, 1 litre of oil, 1 litre of soy sauce, one kilogram of sugar, half kilogram of salt, 12 tins of sardine, and hygiene materials including shampoo, bath and laundry soap, sanitary pad, toothbrush and toothpaste.
The supplies provided to the IDPs could last for at least 15 days for a family of five.
About 2,000 displaced individuals have been uprooted and coping with their displacement for over a month after armed clashes broke out in Sumisip municipality.
“We are deeply concerned about the effects of prolonged displacement of these families. Unable to take care of their farms, these families struggle to provide for their loved ones,” said Piotr Dregiel, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) office in Zamboanga.
The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) in Sumisip said that around 200 families who fled their homes in April 2019 due to the fighting have been staying in Barangay Mangal.
There are also 190 families from Barangay Tumahubong displaced as a result of intermittent clashes since June 2016 who have not yet returned home due to fear of being caught in crossfire.
“Although they received initial assistance from the authorities, they still need further support due to their continued displacement,” Dregiel said.
The ICRC is a neutral, impartial and independent organization whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance. It has an international mandate to promote knowledge for and compliance with international humanitarian law.
“We remind all parties to the conflict about the need to protect civilians and those who are not or no longer participating in the hostilities. They must not be targeted, and their lives and dignity are to be protected at all times,” stressed Dregiel.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1810/displaced-families-in-basilan-receive-aid-from-icrc
Each family received 25 kilograms of rice, 1 litre of oil, 1 litre of soy sauce, one kilogram of sugar, half kilogram of salt, 12 tins of sardine, and hygiene materials including shampoo, bath and laundry soap, sanitary pad, toothbrush and toothpaste.
The supplies provided to the IDPs could last for at least 15 days for a family of five.
About 2,000 displaced individuals have been uprooted and coping with their displacement for over a month after armed clashes broke out in Sumisip municipality.
“We are deeply concerned about the effects of prolonged displacement of these families. Unable to take care of their farms, these families struggle to provide for their loved ones,” said Piotr Dregiel, head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) office in Zamboanga.
The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) in Sumisip said that around 200 families who fled their homes in April 2019 due to the fighting have been staying in Barangay Mangal.
There are also 190 families from Barangay Tumahubong displaced as a result of intermittent clashes since June 2016 who have not yet returned home due to fear of being caught in crossfire.
“Although they received initial assistance from the authorities, they still need further support due to their continued displacement,” Dregiel said.
The ICRC is a neutral, impartial and independent organization whose exclusively humanitarian mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence and to provide them with assistance. It has an international mandate to promote knowledge for and compliance with international humanitarian law.
“We remind all parties to the conflict about the need to protect civilians and those who are not or no longer participating in the hostilities. They must not be targeted, and their lives and dignity are to be protected at all times,” stressed Dregiel.
http://www.luwaran.com/news/article/1810/displaced-families-in-basilan-receive-aid-from-icrc
CPP/NPA: NPA foils 79th IB raid in Minautok, Calatrava: No NPA casualties, more than 7 enemy KIA
NPA propaganda statement posted to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) Website (May 30, 2019): NPA foils 79th IB raid in Minautok, Calatrava: No NPA casualties, more than 7 enemy KIA
The 79th IB gained only great frustration and heavy casualties among their ranks when a unit of the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command – New People’s Army (RJPC-NPA) foiled the enemy’s attempt to raid the NPA on May 15, 2019, around 6:00 in the morning in Sityo Puting Tubig, Brgy. Minautok, Calatrava town.
Based on initial information gathered by the RJPC-NPA from the masses in the area, no less than (7) enemy troopers were Killed In Action or KIA and many others were wounded.
Meanwhile, the NPA decisively and successfully countered the raid of the 79th IB and safely withdrew through the support of the masses and the people.
The Red fighters did not incur any casuaties–no one was killed and not even one was wounded among the NPA in the 30-minute firefight.
Gen. Benedict Arevalo of the 303rd Brigade can only spew lies and deception with their declaration that there were fatalities and wounded NPA fighters in order to cover up the truth that they suffered heavy casualties in their humiliating attack against the Red fighters of the RJPC-NPA. The 79th IB cannot even present one firearm or dead body to the media because they failed to deal any serious damage to the NPA.
The morale and principles of every Red fighter was not affected by the attack of the fascist troops of the 79th IBPA–they are ever determined to advance the people’s armed struggle. The revolutionary movement continues to strengthen and broaden to serve the toiling masses.
The RJPC calls on ordinary soldiers used as pawns in war and not even recognized for sacrificing their lives, to abandon the mercenary orientation of rotten military officials and the faltering US-Duterte regime.
The RJPC-NPA calls on the people to unite in facing and frustrating de facto Martial Law in Negros Island. The NPA is ever ready to serve and defend the masses of the oppressed and exploited.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/05/30/npa-foils-79th-ib-raid-in-minautok-calatrava-no-npa-casualties-more-than-7-enemy-kia/
The 79th IB gained only great frustration and heavy casualties among their ranks when a unit of the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command – New People’s Army (RJPC-NPA) foiled the enemy’s attempt to raid the NPA on May 15, 2019, around 6:00 in the morning in Sityo Puting Tubig, Brgy. Minautok, Calatrava town.
Based on initial information gathered by the RJPC-NPA from the masses in the area, no less than (7) enemy troopers were Killed In Action or KIA and many others were wounded.
Meanwhile, the NPA decisively and successfully countered the raid of the 79th IB and safely withdrew through the support of the masses and the people.
The Red fighters did not incur any casuaties–no one was killed and not even one was wounded among the NPA in the 30-minute firefight.
Gen. Benedict Arevalo of the 303rd Brigade can only spew lies and deception with their declaration that there were fatalities and wounded NPA fighters in order to cover up the truth that they suffered heavy casualties in their humiliating attack against the Red fighters of the RJPC-NPA. The 79th IB cannot even present one firearm or dead body to the media because they failed to deal any serious damage to the NPA.
The morale and principles of every Red fighter was not affected by the attack of the fascist troops of the 79th IBPA–they are ever determined to advance the people’s armed struggle. The revolutionary movement continues to strengthen and broaden to serve the toiling masses.
The RJPC calls on ordinary soldiers used as pawns in war and not even recognized for sacrificing their lives, to abandon the mercenary orientation of rotten military officials and the faltering US-Duterte regime.
The RJPC-NPA calls on the people to unite in facing and frustrating de facto Martial Law in Negros Island. The NPA is ever ready to serve and defend the masses of the oppressed and exploited.
https://www.philippinerevolution.info/2019/05/30/npa-foils-79th-ib-raid-in-minautok-calatrava-no-npa-casualties-more-than-7-enemy-kia/
AFP-CRS: Philippines' first warship launched in South Korea
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): Philippines' first warship launched in South Korea
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AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA terrorist recruitong child warriors
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): CPP-NPA terrorist recruitong child warriors
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AFP-CRS: 3 CPP-NPA-NDF members neutralized in Mindoro
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): 3 CPP-NPA-NDF members neutralized in Mindoro
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AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA-NDF gun down deputy police chief
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): CPP-NPA-NDF gun down deputy police chief
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AFP-CRS: Commemorating Marawi Siege Anniversary
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): Commemorating Marawi Siege Anniversary
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AFP-CRS: Philippine get $3 Million counter terrorism grant
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): Philippine get $3 Million counter terrorism grant
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AFP-CRS: Cops and soldiers will remain in Negros town
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): Cops and soldiers will remain in Negros town
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AFP-CRS: Navy to get three more multi-purpose attack craft this year
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): Navy to get three more multi-purpose attack craft this year
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AFP-CRS: DSWD and Army sign pact on relief goods prepositioning
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): DSWD and Army sign pact on relief goods prepositioning
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AFP-CRS: Philippine Navy frigates enhance naval defence capability
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (May 30, 2019): Philippine Navy frigates enhance naval defence capability
Kalinaw News: Local Government Unit, Army hold Youth Leadership Summit 2019 in SurSur
Posted to Kalinaw News (May 30, 2019): Local Government Unit, Army hold Youth Leadership Summit 2019 in SurSur
The 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion, Philippine Army in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Carmen, Surigao del Sur conducted a three-day Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) dubbed as “Kabataan:Mapagmahal sa Bayan, Pag-asa ng Kinabukasan” held at Carmen Central Elementary School, Carmen, Surigao del Sur from 25-27 May 2019.
A total of sixty seven (67) youth participants coming from the different barangays with 27 female and 40 male ranging from 15 to 30 years of age with all barangays of Carmen are represented.
The activity aims to develop the character as well as leadership potential of the youth. It aims to train each participant to respond productively and positively to any situation and to serve as role models for other youth in their community. Collectively, the YLS hopes to rekindle, develop and enhance teamwork and camaraderie.
The YLS seeks to transform the youth into “peace building” and “catalysts for development”. The Summit hopes to enhance the youth’s awareness of their integral role in nation-building by instilling in them the spirit of patriotism, nationalism and social responsibility. It aims to help the youth develop a critical understanding of themselves and their responsibilities as well as encourage them to recommend and implement programs in close partnership with Local Government Units that will help their fellow youth and the whole community as a well.
The said summit was grace by no less than the Municipal Mayor of Carmen, Hon. Jane V Plaza and Lt. Col. Xerxes A Trinidad, Commanding Officer of the 36IB together with the youth participants coming from different barangays of the Municipality of Carmen.In her statement, Mayor Jane V Plaza, Municipal Mayor of Carmen, “this YLS is one way to develop the peace-loving youth of Carmen to become responsible and productive members of the society.”
Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Trinidad said “It is the government’s responsibility to guide the youth in order for them to be on the right direction and each of us should play a role in their development. In our assessment, the most vulnerable target for recruitment of the CPP-NPA Terrorist is the youth sector, particularly the youth leaders as key communicators.”
The summit is an LGU activity and was facilitated by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office with the support of the SK Federation of Carmen, SDS in partnership with the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion, Philippine Army, POINTY Inc – Surigao del Sur Chapter and 402nd Infantry Brigade in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine National Police (PNP), Technical Education, Skills and Development Agency (TESDA), DENR, NCIP, Municipal Health Office, Tribal Leader and the Purok/Barangay Officials of the said municipality.
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]
The 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion, Philippine Army in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Carmen, Surigao del Sur conducted a three-day Youth Leadership Summit (YLS) dubbed as “Kabataan:Mapagmahal sa Bayan, Pag-asa ng Kinabukasan” held at Carmen Central Elementary School, Carmen, Surigao del Sur from 25-27 May 2019.
A total of sixty seven (67) youth participants coming from the different barangays with 27 female and 40 male ranging from 15 to 30 years of age with all barangays of Carmen are represented.
The activity aims to develop the character as well as leadership potential of the youth. It aims to train each participant to respond productively and positively to any situation and to serve as role models for other youth in their community. Collectively, the YLS hopes to rekindle, develop and enhance teamwork and camaraderie.
The YLS seeks to transform the youth into “peace building” and “catalysts for development”. The Summit hopes to enhance the youth’s awareness of their integral role in nation-building by instilling in them the spirit of patriotism, nationalism and social responsibility. It aims to help the youth develop a critical understanding of themselves and their responsibilities as well as encourage them to recommend and implement programs in close partnership with Local Government Units that will help their fellow youth and the whole community as a well.
The said summit was grace by no less than the Municipal Mayor of Carmen, Hon. Jane V Plaza and Lt. Col. Xerxes A Trinidad, Commanding Officer of the 36IB together with the youth participants coming from different barangays of the Municipality of Carmen.In her statement, Mayor Jane V Plaza, Municipal Mayor of Carmen, “this YLS is one way to develop the peace-loving youth of Carmen to become responsible and productive members of the society.”
Meanwhile, Lt. Col. Trinidad said “It is the government’s responsibility to guide the youth in order for them to be on the right direction and each of us should play a role in their development. In our assessment, the most vulnerable target for recruitment of the CPP-NPA Terrorist is the youth sector, particularly the youth leaders as key communicators.”
The summit is an LGU activity and was facilitated by the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office with the support of the SK Federation of Carmen, SDS in partnership with the 36th Infantry (Valor) Battalion, Philippine Army, POINTY Inc – Surigao del Sur Chapter and 402nd Infantry Brigade in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd), Philippine National Police (PNP), Technical Education, Skills and Development Agency (TESDA), DENR, NCIP, Municipal Health Office, Tribal Leader and the Purok/Barangay Officials of the said municipality.
36th Infantry Battalion, 4th Infantry Division PA
1LT Jonald D Romorosa
CMO Officer, 36th Infantry Battalion
Sitio Upper Mambago, Dayo-an, Tago, Surigao del Sur
valor_36@yahoo.com
0917-1466-326/09491243886
1LT Jonald D Romorosa
CMO Officer, 36th Infantry Battalion
Sitio Upper Mambago, Dayo-an, Tago, Surigao del Sur
valor_36@yahoo.com
0917-1466-326/09491243886
Kalinaw News: NPA Terrorists attack foreign observers of IP projects in Bukidnon
Posted to Kalinaw News (May 30, 2019): NPA Terrorists attack foreign observers of IP projects in Bukidnon
At least 10 were hurt this this morning (May 30, 2019) when NPA terrorists detonated an anti-personnel mine on a convoy of vehicles bearing foreign nationals, local volunteers and soldiers escorting the group while passing Sitio Nasandigan, Brgy Kalabugao, Impasug-ong Bukidnon.
Among those hurt were 7 army soldiers. In response, the soldiers returned fire and chased the perpetrators, hitting 3 NPA terrorists as revealed by the troops.
Foreigners from the IP communities in Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia and Malaysia came to Sitio Mintapod, Brgy Hagpa, Impasugong, Bukidnon to observe the activity of local IP community volunteers belonging to Higaonon Amamag Malandang Olandok Gagaw (HAMOG), a non-government organization which promotes cultural preservation in the area. The group is also supposed to have a forest visitation for their “PAUNLAY TA AGHIMICU” (forest visitation phase II). HAMOG sought the assistance of the Impasugong IPMR and the Philippine Army for security during their activity.
“We thought a tire exploded, then we heard burst of fire, somebody shouted duck” a foreigner said. We were afraid but we are very thankful to Filipino soldiers for providing us protection” she added.
“Our troops discovered 2 more anti-personnel mines that remained unexploded and left behid my the fleeing terrorists. Thise AP mines could have injured the foreign observers. The EOD and PNP SOCO are now recovering those AP mines to avoid harming civilians passers through. It is obvious that the incident this morning is a direct attack to civilians who are not involved and should be protected from any form of attack. This incident deserves international condemnation on the CPP-NPA terrorists” Col Edgardo De Leon, 403 Bde Commander said.
After the incident, the foreign delegation proceeded to Laguindingan Airport for their flight to their next destination.
403rd Infantry "Peacemaker" Brigade 4 Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Marcelito Quijano
CMO Officer, 403Bde, 41D, PA
Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
09564177497
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]
At least 10 were hurt this this morning (May 30, 2019) when NPA terrorists detonated an anti-personnel mine on a convoy of vehicles bearing foreign nationals, local volunteers and soldiers escorting the group while passing Sitio Nasandigan, Brgy Kalabugao, Impasug-ong Bukidnon.
Among those hurt were 7 army soldiers. In response, the soldiers returned fire and chased the perpetrators, hitting 3 NPA terrorists as revealed by the troops.
Foreigners from the IP communities in Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia and Malaysia came to Sitio Mintapod, Brgy Hagpa, Impasugong, Bukidnon to observe the activity of local IP community volunteers belonging to Higaonon Amamag Malandang Olandok Gagaw (HAMOG), a non-government organization which promotes cultural preservation in the area. The group is also supposed to have a forest visitation for their “PAUNLAY TA AGHIMICU” (forest visitation phase II). HAMOG sought the assistance of the Impasugong IPMR and the Philippine Army for security during their activity.
“We thought a tire exploded, then we heard burst of fire, somebody shouted duck” a foreigner said. We were afraid but we are very thankful to Filipino soldiers for providing us protection” she added.
“Our troops discovered 2 more anti-personnel mines that remained unexploded and left behid my the fleeing terrorists. Thise AP mines could have injured the foreign observers. The EOD and PNP SOCO are now recovering those AP mines to avoid harming civilians passers through. It is obvious that the incident this morning is a direct attack to civilians who are not involved and should be protected from any form of attack. This incident deserves international condemnation on the CPP-NPA terrorists” Col Edgardo De Leon, 403 Bde Commander said.
After the incident, the foreign delegation proceeded to Laguindingan Airport for their flight to their next destination.
403rd Infantry "Peacemaker" Brigade 4 Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Marcelito Quijano
CMO Officer, 403Bde, 41D, PA
Malaybalay City, Bukidnon
09564177497
Kalinaw News: NPA cache seized in Surigao City
Posted to Kalinaw News (May 30, 2019): NPA cache seized in Surigao City
CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – Government troops captured stocks of war material and other supplies and terrorists paraphernalia in the outskirts of Sitio Brazil, Barangay Mat-i, Surigao City, Capt. Regie H. Go, chief of Public Affairs Office (PAO) of the Army’s 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID) said.
In an exclusive interview with The Manila Bulletin on Tuesday, the PAO chief of the 4th ID said the discovery of the war material, food supplies, and other paraphernalia came about after a former Communist rebel, who recently surrendered to the Army troops in the field, pinpointed the exact location of the arms and supply cache on Saturday (May 25).
“The former Milisya ng Bayan (MB) commander of the CPP-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee who voluntarily surrendered to our field troops led to the exact location of the supplies,” the PAO chief of the 4th ID said.
Division Public Affairs Office 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Regie H Go
OIC DPAO 4ID
armydiamond@ymail.com
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]
CAMP BANCASI, Butuan City – Government troops captured stocks of war material and other supplies and terrorists paraphernalia in the outskirts of Sitio Brazil, Barangay Mat-i, Surigao City, Capt. Regie H. Go, chief of Public Affairs Office (PAO) of the Army’s 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID) said.
In an exclusive interview with The Manila Bulletin on Tuesday, the PAO chief of the 4th ID said the discovery of the war material, food supplies, and other paraphernalia came about after a former Communist rebel, who recently surrendered to the Army troops in the field, pinpointed the exact location of the arms and supply cache on Saturday (May 25).
“The former Milisya ng Bayan (MB) commander of the CPP-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee who voluntarily surrendered to our field troops led to the exact location of the supplies,” the PAO chief of the 4th ID said.
Division Public Affairs Office 4th Infantry Division Philippine Army
Cpt Regie H Go
OIC DPAO 4ID
armydiamond@ymail.com
[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace by the Philippine Army. It provides information on the activities of Army Units nationwide in the performance of their duty of Serving the People and Securing the Land. This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]
Supreme Court issues writ of amparo in favor of rights groups
From Rappler (May 30, 2019): Supreme Court issues writ of amparo in favor of rights groups
(UPDATED) The Supreme Court directs the Court of Appeals to hear the petition of Gabriela, Karapatan, and the Rural Missionaries of the Philippines on June 18
COURT OF LAST RESORT. The Supreme Court issues a writ of amparo and habeas data in favor of several groups tagged by the government as communist fronts. File photo by LeAnne Jazul/Rappler
(UPDATED) – The Supreme Court (SC) has issued a writ of amparo and habeas data in favor of 3 groups tagged by the government as alleged fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
In a resolution made public on Thursday, May 30, the High Court directed the government to respond, through a verified return, to the petition filed by human rights group Karapatan, religious group Rural Missionaries of the Philippines, and women's group Gabriela on or before June 13.
“Whereas, considering the allegations contained, the issues raised and the arguments adduced in the petition, it is necessary and proper to…issue a writ of amparo and habeas data,” the resolution read.
The High Court referred the petition to the presiding justice of the Court of Appeals for immediate raffle among the CA justices. It also directed the CA to hear the petition on June 18
Protection vs threats
The petitioners want court protection against threats to the lives, liberty, and security of their members through a writ of amparo. They also want the government to disclose and destroy all files or records gathered against their members through a writ of habeas data.
A writ of amparo is a legal remedy seeking a protection order, while a writ of habeas data asks the Court to compel the respondent to delete or destroy damaging information.
The petitioners cited the killings of human rights workers and paralegals from 2002 up to the present administration. They also said that from 2001 to 2019, at least 48 Karapatan human rights defenders were killed by state forces.
The petitioners also said that since the Duterte administration accused the groups of being communist fronts, their officers and members have been threatened, harassed, and intimidated.
Among the respondents are President Rodrigo Duterte, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, military chief General Benjamin Madrigal Jr, and Armed Forces Deputy Chief of Staff Major General Antonio Parlade Jr.
The other respondents are:
National Security Council Deputy Director General Vicente Agdamag
Philippine National Police Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management Colonel Omega Jireh Fidel
Presidential Communication Operations Office Undersecretary and Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security Joel Sy Egco
Presidential Human Rights Committee Secretariat Undersecretary Severo Catura
PCOO Undersecretary for New Media and External Affairs Lorraine Marie Badoy
National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Director General Alex Paul Monteagudo
Karapatan National Chairperson Elisa Tita Lubi welcomed the SC decision. She said the petitioners were "aware that this is just the beginning of an arduous battle, but we take courage from all the human rights defenders who withstood the worst of this repressive government, and all those who have been killed in the cause for human rights."
"The Duterte administration has poured effort, resources and time into undermining our work but unfortunately for them, we will always assert our right to continue human rights advocacy. As they attack us from all fronts, we fight back in the same persistent and determined manner,” she added.
The Department of National Defense (DND), for its part, expressed confidence that the government can disprove the allegations of the petitioners in court.
"The DND is confident that the allegations by Karapatan and Gabriela in connection with the writ of amparo and habeas data will be proven false before the courts," the DND said in a statement.
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"The DND and its bureaus fully adhere to the rule of law, and we will address Karapatan and Gabriela following the legal process. There is certainly no threat to their members’ lives, liberty, and security coming from the Defense and military establishments, and we will comply with the writ of habeas data as ordered by the court," it added.
The SC had earlier granted a similar petition filed by the National Union of Peoples' Lawyers (NUPL).
https://www.rappler.com/nation/231847-supreme-court-issues-writ-amparo-habeas-data-rights-groups
(UPDATED) – The Supreme Court (SC) has issued a writ of amparo and habeas data in favor of 3 groups tagged by the government as alleged fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).
In a resolution made public on Thursday, May 30, the High Court directed the government to respond, through a verified return, to the petition filed by human rights group Karapatan, religious group Rural Missionaries of the Philippines, and women's group Gabriela on or before June 13.
“Whereas, considering the allegations contained, the issues raised and the arguments adduced in the petition, it is necessary and proper to…issue a writ of amparo and habeas data,” the resolution read.
The High Court referred the petition to the presiding justice of the Court of Appeals for immediate raffle among the CA justices. It also directed the CA to hear the petition on June 18
Protection vs threats
The petitioners want court protection against threats to the lives, liberty, and security of their members through a writ of amparo. They also want the government to disclose and destroy all files or records gathered against their members through a writ of habeas data.
A writ of amparo is a legal remedy seeking a protection order, while a writ of habeas data asks the Court to compel the respondent to delete or destroy damaging information.
The petitioners cited the killings of human rights workers and paralegals from 2002 up to the present administration. They also said that from 2001 to 2019, at least 48 Karapatan human rights defenders were killed by state forces.
The petitioners also said that since the Duterte administration accused the groups of being communist fronts, their officers and members have been threatened, harassed, and intimidated.
Among the respondents are President Rodrigo Duterte, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, military chief General Benjamin Madrigal Jr, and Armed Forces Deputy Chief of Staff Major General Antonio Parlade Jr.
The other respondents are:
National Security Council Deputy Director General Vicente Agdamag
Philippine National Police Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management Colonel Omega Jireh Fidel
Presidential Communication Operations Office Undersecretary and Executive Director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security Joel Sy Egco
Presidential Human Rights Committee Secretariat Undersecretary Severo Catura
PCOO Undersecretary for New Media and External Affairs Lorraine Marie Badoy
National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) Director General Alex Paul Monteagudo
Karapatan National Chairperson Elisa Tita Lubi welcomed the SC decision. She said the petitioners were "aware that this is just the beginning of an arduous battle, but we take courage from all the human rights defenders who withstood the worst of this repressive government, and all those who have been killed in the cause for human rights."
"The Duterte administration has poured effort, resources and time into undermining our work but unfortunately for them, we will always assert our right to continue human rights advocacy. As they attack us from all fronts, we fight back in the same persistent and determined manner,” she added.
The Department of National Defense (DND), for its part, expressed confidence that the government can disprove the allegations of the petitioners in court.
"The DND is confident that the allegations by Karapatan and Gabriela in connection with the writ of amparo and habeas data will be proven false before the courts," the DND said in a statement.
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"The DND and its bureaus fully adhere to the rule of law, and we will address Karapatan and Gabriela following the legal process. There is certainly no threat to their members’ lives, liberty, and security coming from the Defense and military establishments, and we will comply with the writ of habeas data as ordered by the court," it added.
The SC had earlier granted a similar petition filed by the National Union of Peoples' Lawyers (NUPL).
https://www.rappler.com/nation/231847-supreme-court-issues-writ-amparo-habeas-data-rights-groups
Foreign development workers cheat death in NPA ambush in Bukidnon
From MindaNews (May 30, 2019): Foreign development workers cheat death in NPA ambush in Bukidnon
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – A group of foreign development workers escaped death when communist rebels exploded a landmine on their convoy as they were coming down from the mountains in Impasug-ong town, Bukidnon Thursday morning.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – A group of foreign development workers escaped death when communist rebels exploded a landmine on their convoy as they were coming down from the mountains in Impasug-ong town, Bukidnon Thursday morning.
Imapsug-ong, Bukidnon. Map courtesy of Google
Lt. Col. Ronald Illana, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion, said military security escorts of the foreigners engaged the rebels in a 40-minute firefight.
Illana said eight soldiers were wounded, including the Army team leader, Lt. Angelo Francis Vinuya.
He said three of the NPA rebels were also wounded as can be seen in the bloody trails around the ambush site.
Illana said none of the 11-man group of Malaysians, Indonesians, and Vietnamese were injured.
Pia Paraiso, spokesperson for the NPA Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon, confirmed that it was their units who engaged the convoy.
She did not provide details of the incident saying they are still waiting for the report of the NPA unit involved in the fighting.
Col. Edgardo de Leon, commander of the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade, said the foreigners went to a Higaonon tribe village in barangay Hagpa, Impasug-ong town last Wednesday.
He said the foreigners contacted the Higaonons and sought assistance from the local government of Impasug-ong.
“They wanted to see the activity of the Higaonon Lumad in their village and how they preserve their cultural traditions,” De Leon said.
After spending a night in the Lumad village, the group left Thursday morning aboard a dump truck provided by the LGU.
A military truck also went along with them to provide security.
Illana said that upon reaching Sitio Nasandigan, Barangay Kalabugao, a landmine detonated by the rebels exploded in front of the escorting military truck.
He said a 40-minute firefight ensued as the soldiers fought the rebels. Most of the foreigners were safely hidden at the back of the dump truck.
After the fighting subsided, Illana said the foreigners left for Laguindingan Airport to catch their flight to Manila.
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/05/foreign-development-workers-cheat-death-in-npa-ambush-in-bukidnon/
Lt. Col. Ronald Illana, commander of the Army’s 8th Infantry Battalion, said military security escorts of the foreigners engaged the rebels in a 40-minute firefight.
Illana said eight soldiers were wounded, including the Army team leader, Lt. Angelo Francis Vinuya.
He said three of the NPA rebels were also wounded as can be seen in the bloody trails around the ambush site.
Illana said none of the 11-man group of Malaysians, Indonesians, and Vietnamese were injured.
Pia Paraiso, spokesperson for the NPA Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon, confirmed that it was their units who engaged the convoy.
She did not provide details of the incident saying they are still waiting for the report of the NPA unit involved in the fighting.
Col. Edgardo de Leon, commander of the Army’s 403rd Infantry Brigade, said the foreigners went to a Higaonon tribe village in barangay Hagpa, Impasug-ong town last Wednesday.
He said the foreigners contacted the Higaonons and sought assistance from the local government of Impasug-ong.
“They wanted to see the activity of the Higaonon Lumad in their village and how they preserve their cultural traditions,” De Leon said.
After spending a night in the Lumad village, the group left Thursday morning aboard a dump truck provided by the LGU.
A military truck also went along with them to provide security.
Illana said that upon reaching Sitio Nasandigan, Barangay Kalabugao, a landmine detonated by the rebels exploded in front of the escorting military truck.
He said a 40-minute firefight ensued as the soldiers fought the rebels. Most of the foreigners were safely hidden at the back of the dump truck.
After the fighting subsided, Illana said the foreigners left for Laguindingan Airport to catch their flight to Manila.
https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2019/05/foreign-development-workers-cheat-death-in-npa-ambush-in-bukidnon/
Elected officials backing rebels can face charges: Army
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): Elected officials backing rebels can face charges: Army
WARNING TO NPA-SUPPORTERS. Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, commander of the 61st Infantry Battalion (IB) of the Philippine Army (PA), warns on Thursday (May 30, 2019) that charges can be filed against elected officials who continue to support the New People's Army. He said 15 out of the 37 politicians, who were monitored to back the NPAs, secured government posts in the recent May 13 elections. (File photo)
Newly-elected government officials who continue to support the New People's Army can be charged with financing terrorism, the top official of the 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) of the Philippine Army (PA) warned on Thursday.
Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, 61IB commander, said they monitored 37 politicians, who ran for the mid-term polls and were also backing the NPA.
Fifteen of these officials were elected as either mayors or Sangguniang Bayan members in the provinces of Iloilo and Capiz.
He added that 15 is still a "running number" because there were additional elected officials suspected to be supporting the rebels, based on the reports of other government agencies.
"For the past months, there were candidates consistently monitored to have been giving support to the NPA, including some candidates who gave in on the rebels' 'permit' to win and 'permit' to campaign (fees)," Batara said in a phone interview.
The communist rebels demanded money from the candidates for them to enter and campaign freely in a certain area.
"We continue our monitoring on these officials and if we have concrete pieces of evidence, there would be appropriate cases to be filed against them," Batara said.
Violations of Republic Act 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 can be filed against these officials, he said.
Furthermore, Batara said the local government units (LGUs), particularly the local chief executives, should spearhead the efforts to end the insurgency in the country.
He appreciated the move of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) in submitting a letter to the Sangguniang Panglungsod and recommending the declaration of the NPA as persona non-grata.
"It is included in our line of efforts, our line of actions. We also encourage other LGUs to do the same," he said, adding that the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) had been incessantly urging the declaration of NPAs as persona non-grata in all municipalities nationwide.
Declaring the NPA as persona non-grata means "containing the rebels in other definite areas," he said. "It means they are not welcome in a certain place. NPA (rebels) are mobile and can go anywhere even in the city," he added.
“But the best way that we see is all municipalities and the entire province of Iloilo will also push for declaring the rebels as persona non-grata because it connotes unity, that we are solid in our stand against the rebels,” he said.
The United States and European Union governments have labeled the NPA, and its political body, the Communist Party of the Philippines, as an international terror organization.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071051
WARNING TO NPA-SUPPORTERS. Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, commander of the 61st Infantry Battalion (IB) of the Philippine Army (PA), warns on Thursday (May 30, 2019) that charges can be filed against elected officials who continue to support the New People's Army. He said 15 out of the 37 politicians, who were monitored to back the NPAs, secured government posts in the recent May 13 elections. (File photo)
Newly-elected government officials who continue to support the New People's Army can be charged with financing terrorism, the top official of the 61st Infantry Battalion (61IB) of the Philippine Army (PA) warned on Thursday.
Lt. Col. Joel Benedict Batara, 61IB commander, said they monitored 37 politicians, who ran for the mid-term polls and were also backing the NPA.
Fifteen of these officials were elected as either mayors or Sangguniang Bayan members in the provinces of Iloilo and Capiz.
He added that 15 is still a "running number" because there were additional elected officials suspected to be supporting the rebels, based on the reports of other government agencies.
"For the past months, there were candidates consistently monitored to have been giving support to the NPA, including some candidates who gave in on the rebels' 'permit' to win and 'permit' to campaign (fees)," Batara said in a phone interview.
The communist rebels demanded money from the candidates for them to enter and campaign freely in a certain area.
"We continue our monitoring on these officials and if we have concrete pieces of evidence, there would be appropriate cases to be filed against them," Batara said.
Violations of Republic Act 10168 or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 can be filed against these officials, he said.
Furthermore, Batara said the local government units (LGUs), particularly the local chief executives, should spearhead the efforts to end the insurgency in the country.
He appreciated the move of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) in submitting a letter to the Sangguniang Panglungsod and recommending the declaration of the NPA as persona non-grata.
"It is included in our line of efforts, our line of actions. We also encourage other LGUs to do the same," he said, adding that the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) had been incessantly urging the declaration of NPAs as persona non-grata in all municipalities nationwide.
Declaring the NPA as persona non-grata means "containing the rebels in other definite areas," he said. "It means they are not welcome in a certain place. NPA (rebels) are mobile and can go anywhere even in the city," he added.
“But the best way that we see is all municipalities and the entire province of Iloilo will also push for declaring the rebels as persona non-grata because it connotes unity, that we are solid in our stand against the rebels,” he said.
The United States and European Union governments have labeled the NPA, and its political body, the Communist Party of the Philippines, as an international terror organization.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071051
11 hurt as Reds attack foreign observers in Bukidnon
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): 11 hurt as Reds attack foreign observers in Bukidnon
A Google map of the Bukidnon town of Impasug-ong.
Communist guerrillas attacked a convoy carrying foreign observers in the Impasug-ong town of Bukidnon Thursday (May 30), wounding 11 persons.
It was not clear whether any of the foreigners were hurt, but the Army' 403rd Infantry Brigade said seven of the wounded persons were military personnel who were part of the team that provided security to the group.
A press release from the 403IB said a group of local volunteers and foreign observers from Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia, and Malaysia were visiting an Indigenous People's community in Sitio Mintapod, Brgy. Hagpa, Impasugong, to observe cultural preservation practices in the area.
While passing Sitio Nasandigan in Brgy. Kalabugao of the town, however, the communist rebels detonated an anti-personnel mine that targeted the convoy, the 403IB said.
The soldiers returned fire and chased the communist rebels, wounding three NPA combatants, the 403IB said.
"After the incident, the foreign delegation proceeded to Laguindingan Airport for their flight to their next destination," the 403IB said.
According to the military, the foreign observers were invited by local IP community volunteers belonging to Higaonon Amamag Malandang Olandok Gagaw (HAMOG), a non-government organization that promotes cultural preservation in the area.
The international observers were also supposed to conduct a "forest visitation" in the area.
"We thought a tire exploded, then we heard a burst of fire, somebody shouted duck," the military quoted one of the foreigners.
"We were afraid but we are very thankful to Filipino soldiers for providing us protection," the unnamed foreigner added.
Col. Edgardo de Leon, 403IB commander, said government troops managed to recover two more unexploded anti-personnel mines in the area.
"These AP mines could have injured the foreign observers. The EOD (explosive ordnance disposal) and PNP SOCO (Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives) are now recovering those AP mines to avoid harming civilians passing through," de Leon said.
He described the incident as "a direct attack to civilians who are not involved and should be protected from any form of attack."
He added: "This incident deserves international condemnation on the CPP-NPA terrorists," referring to the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People's Army.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071108
Communist guerrillas attacked a convoy carrying foreign observers in the Impasug-ong town of Bukidnon Thursday (May 30), wounding 11 persons.
It was not clear whether any of the foreigners were hurt, but the Army' 403rd Infantry Brigade said seven of the wounded persons were military personnel who were part of the team that provided security to the group.
A press release from the 403IB said a group of local volunteers and foreign observers from Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia, and Malaysia were visiting an Indigenous People's community in Sitio Mintapod, Brgy. Hagpa, Impasugong, to observe cultural preservation practices in the area.
While passing Sitio Nasandigan in Brgy. Kalabugao of the town, however, the communist rebels detonated an anti-personnel mine that targeted the convoy, the 403IB said.
The soldiers returned fire and chased the communist rebels, wounding three NPA combatants, the 403IB said.
"After the incident, the foreign delegation proceeded to Laguindingan Airport for their flight to their next destination," the 403IB said.
According to the military, the foreign observers were invited by local IP community volunteers belonging to Higaonon Amamag Malandang Olandok Gagaw (HAMOG), a non-government organization that promotes cultural preservation in the area.
The international observers were also supposed to conduct a "forest visitation" in the area.
"We thought a tire exploded, then we heard a burst of fire, somebody shouted duck," the military quoted one of the foreigners.
"We were afraid but we are very thankful to Filipino soldiers for providing us protection," the unnamed foreigner added.
Col. Edgardo de Leon, 403IB commander, said government troops managed to recover two more unexploded anti-personnel mines in the area.
"These AP mines could have injured the foreign observers. The EOD (explosive ordnance disposal) and PNP SOCO (Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime Operatives) are now recovering those AP mines to avoid harming civilians passing through," de Leon said.
He described the incident as "a direct attack to civilians who are not involved and should be protected from any form of attack."
He added: "This incident deserves international condemnation on the CPP-NPA terrorists," referring to the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People's Army.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071108
2 suspected Abu Sayyaf members nabbed in Davao
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): 2 suspected Abu Sayyaf members nabbed in Davao
Two persons suspected to be members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were arrested by personnel of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) and the Police Regional Intelligence Unit in a joint special operation here on Wednesday evening.
Colonel Alexander Tagum, DCPO director, identified the two suspected ASG members as Haider Arasani Anjawang, 31, a resident of Patikol Sulu; and Al Fasal Abubakar Hassan, 40, a resident of Zamboanga City.
Tagum said Anjawang and Hassan, who are both wanted for various crimes, were arrested in Purok 4, Barangay Ilang.
Police said Anjawang has a standing warrant of arrest for frustrated murder and illegal possession of explosives issued by Judge Ambrosio de Luna, Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court of Palawan Branch 51, Puerto Princesa City.
Police operatives recovered from Anjawang’s possession a .45 caliber pistol, ammunition, and a fragmentation grenade.
Tagum said Hassan was arrested for possession of a fragmentation grenade.
Brig. Gen. Marcelo Morales, chief of Police Regional Office-11 (PRO-11), said Thursday that the arrest of the duo came after intelligence operatives received information on their presence in neighboring Panabo City.
Morales said the two went into hiding after warrants for their arrest were issued, staying for two days in Panabo City and arrived in Davao City on the day they were arrested.
According to Morales, Anjawang was confirmed as an Abu Sayyaf member who was last seen on a CCTV footage in Patikul, Sulu. Anjawang denied this, saying he is a mere construction worker.
Hassan also denied he is a member of the ASG but admitted he has a frustrated murder case.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071109
Two persons suspected to be members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were arrested by personnel of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) and the Police Regional Intelligence Unit in a joint special operation here on Wednesday evening.
Colonel Alexander Tagum, DCPO director, identified the two suspected ASG members as Haider Arasani Anjawang, 31, a resident of Patikol Sulu; and Al Fasal Abubakar Hassan, 40, a resident of Zamboanga City.
Tagum said Anjawang and Hassan, who are both wanted for various crimes, were arrested in Purok 4, Barangay Ilang.
Police said Anjawang has a standing warrant of arrest for frustrated murder and illegal possession of explosives issued by Judge Ambrosio de Luna, Presiding Judge of Regional Trial Court of Palawan Branch 51, Puerto Princesa City.
Police operatives recovered from Anjawang’s possession a .45 caliber pistol, ammunition, and a fragmentation grenade.
Tagum said Hassan was arrested for possession of a fragmentation grenade.
Brig. Gen. Marcelo Morales, chief of Police Regional Office-11 (PRO-11), said Thursday that the arrest of the duo came after intelligence operatives received information on their presence in neighboring Panabo City.
Morales said the two went into hiding after warrants for their arrest were issued, staying for two days in Panabo City and arrived in Davao City on the day they were arrested.
According to Morales, Anjawang was confirmed as an Abu Sayyaf member who was last seen on a CCTV footage in Patikul, Sulu. Anjawang denied this, saying he is a mere construction worker.
Hassan also denied he is a member of the ASG but admitted he has a frustrated murder case.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071109
PNP hosts leadership youth camp in Pangasinan
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): PNP hosts leadership youth camp in Pangasinan
LEADERSHIP YOUTH CAMP. The young people at Anda town in Pangasinan listen attentively to the lecturer during the three-day leadership youth camp here from May 27-29, 2019 led by the Anda Police Station in coordination with the Sangguniang Kabataan and the Bless our Cops Movement. The youth camp focuses on anti-illegal drugs, anti-terrorism, and leadership training, (Photo courtesy of Anda Police Station)
ANDA, Pangasinan -- Hundreds of young people joined the May 27-29 leadership youth camp that focused on anti-illegal drugs, anti-terrorism, and leadership training, which as hosted by the Anda Police Station - in coordination with the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) here.
Capt. Santiago Baloco III, chief of police of Anda, underscored the need to develop the youth who would become the future leaders of the town.
“According to our national hero, the youths are the future of our country, and so we wanted to train them and prepare them for their future,” he said in an interview Thursday,
Baloco said they lectured the campers on the effects of illegal drugs to the individual and the community.
“We focused on the preventive measures since the town is already declared drug-free,” he said.
The police also urged the young people to scrutinize wisely the organizations they are joining, as part of the anti-terrorism lecture, he added.
Aside from lectures, team-building activities were conducted aimed at training the youths to obey rules and orders from their leaders.
“If they start obeying small rules, we believe they can also later on be able to obey the bigger laws of the land,” Baloco explained.
The police also tapped the Bless our Cops Movement that gave spiritual enlightenment to the campers.
“We also tackled their spirituality, as we believe if a person fears and loves God, then he/she will not be led into illegal drugs or on terrorism and other irregular activities,” he said.
The SK members were also tasked to propose projects, which would be implemented in their respective barangays.
“We hope to have good relationship with the SK members so we could continue doing the proposed projects with them,” Baloco said.
The youth camp was held at the Chateau resort in Barangay Cabungan here.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071139
LEADERSHIP YOUTH CAMP. The young people at Anda town in Pangasinan listen attentively to the lecturer during the three-day leadership youth camp here from May 27-29, 2019 led by the Anda Police Station in coordination with the Sangguniang Kabataan and the Bless our Cops Movement. The youth camp focuses on anti-illegal drugs, anti-terrorism, and leadership training, (Photo courtesy of Anda Police Station)
ANDA, Pangasinan -- Hundreds of young people joined the May 27-29 leadership youth camp that focused on anti-illegal drugs, anti-terrorism, and leadership training, which as hosted by the Anda Police Station - in coordination with the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) here.
Capt. Santiago Baloco III, chief of police of Anda, underscored the need to develop the youth who would become the future leaders of the town.
“According to our national hero, the youths are the future of our country, and so we wanted to train them and prepare them for their future,” he said in an interview Thursday,
Baloco said they lectured the campers on the effects of illegal drugs to the individual and the community.
“We focused on the preventive measures since the town is already declared drug-free,” he said.
The police also urged the young people to scrutinize wisely the organizations they are joining, as part of the anti-terrorism lecture, he added.
Aside from lectures, team-building activities were conducted aimed at training the youths to obey rules and orders from their leaders.
“If they start obeying small rules, we believe they can also later on be able to obey the bigger laws of the land,” Baloco explained.
The police also tapped the Bless our Cops Movement that gave spiritual enlightenment to the campers.
“We also tackled their spirituality, as we believe if a person fears and loves God, then he/she will not be led into illegal drugs or on terrorism and other irregular activities,” he said.
The SK members were also tasked to propose projects, which would be implemented in their respective barangays.
“We hope to have good relationship with the SK members so we could continue doing the proposed projects with them,” Baloco said.
The youth camp was held at the Chateau resort in Barangay Cabungan here.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071139
PMA grad tells youth to be more discerning in joining groups
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): PMA grad tells youth to be more discerning in joining groups
Philippine Military Academy (PMA) graduate Mark Ivan Genosa
Saying most movements pushing for the country's development are tainted with greed for power, Mark Ivan Genosa urged the Filipino youth to be more discerning in joining organizations.
Genosa, a 22-year-old fresh graduate of the Philippine Military Academy who opted to join the Philippine Army, said the youth should select groups which show their concern and devotion for the country and the Filipino people.
"I am discouraging the youth from joining such groups because this is the only peaceful means of ending insurgency,” said Genosa from Taguig in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
“Tackling this problem from its grassroots, which is recruitment, will be a win-win situation for the Filipino people," he added.
Genosa stressed there are many ways through which the youth, and every Filipino, could do to show patriotism like paying the right taxes, sharing and helping each other, disposing garbage properly, and teaching the uneducated.
He said staging rallies and resorting to wars are useless because it often results in deaths and injuries and destroy the nation’s peace.
"Unang-una, hindi naman naiiba ang dugong nananalaytay sa atin, lahat tayo ay Pilipino. (First of all, we’re all Filipinos),” Genosa said.
He said money being spent for war should instead be used for other programs which will address the problems of the country.
“Ngunit, dahil na nga sa pangambang dala ng bayolenteng pakikibaka, walang magawa ang pamahalaan kung hindi unahin ang kapayapaan at kaayusan ng bansa (But because of the fears brought by violent struggles, the government has no choice but to prioritize the peace and order of the country)," Genosa said.
Unlike in their five trainings in the PMA, Genosa said this time, they have no luxury to commit mistakes when dealing with insurgencies.
"Bawal ang magkamali, dahil kung sa akademya, ay may demerits at touring hours, sa labas, wala na. Buhay mo or buhay ng mga tropa mo na ang kapalit. (We can’t afford to make mistakes because if inside the academy, you have demerits and touring hours, in the battlefield, there's none. A single mistake will cost your life or your troops’ lives)," he added.
Genosa emphasized the importance of making the youth understand that warfare is not the right way to resolve conflicts and instead push for reforms and development of the country.
"Sapat na ang mga diskusyon, debate, o pagsusulat upang maiparating ang kung anumang gusto nilang sabihin, huwag na huwag sumali sa mga kilusang ang hangad lamang ay kapangyarihan. (Discussions, debates or writing to air their grievances are enough. Don’t ever join the movements whose goal is power),” he said.
Citing the country has not truly flourished in the past 50 years, Genosa urged the youth to support the government's various projects and contribute to the country's growth in a positive way.
"Hindi ko talaga ginustong magsundalo. Marahil, ang pagiging sundalo ko ang paraan ng Panginoon upang maibalik ko ang aking utang na loob sa mga Pilipino (I really didn't plan to become a soldier. Maybe, being a soldier is God's way for me to show my debt of gratitude to the Filipinos)," he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071147
Saying most movements pushing for the country's development are tainted with greed for power, Mark Ivan Genosa urged the Filipino youth to be more discerning in joining organizations.
Genosa, a 22-year-old fresh graduate of the Philippine Military Academy who opted to join the Philippine Army, said the youth should select groups which show their concern and devotion for the country and the Filipino people.
"I am discouraging the youth from joining such groups because this is the only peaceful means of ending insurgency,” said Genosa from Taguig in an interview with the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
“Tackling this problem from its grassroots, which is recruitment, will be a win-win situation for the Filipino people," he added.
Genosa stressed there are many ways through which the youth, and every Filipino, could do to show patriotism like paying the right taxes, sharing and helping each other, disposing garbage properly, and teaching the uneducated.
He said staging rallies and resorting to wars are useless because it often results in deaths and injuries and destroy the nation’s peace.
"Unang-una, hindi naman naiiba ang dugong nananalaytay sa atin, lahat tayo ay Pilipino. (First of all, we’re all Filipinos),” Genosa said.
He said money being spent for war should instead be used for other programs which will address the problems of the country.
“Ngunit, dahil na nga sa pangambang dala ng bayolenteng pakikibaka, walang magawa ang pamahalaan kung hindi unahin ang kapayapaan at kaayusan ng bansa (But because of the fears brought by violent struggles, the government has no choice but to prioritize the peace and order of the country)," Genosa said.
Unlike in their five trainings in the PMA, Genosa said this time, they have no luxury to commit mistakes when dealing with insurgencies.
"Bawal ang magkamali, dahil kung sa akademya, ay may demerits at touring hours, sa labas, wala na. Buhay mo or buhay ng mga tropa mo na ang kapalit. (We can’t afford to make mistakes because if inside the academy, you have demerits and touring hours, in the battlefield, there's none. A single mistake will cost your life or your troops’ lives)," he added.
Genosa emphasized the importance of making the youth understand that warfare is not the right way to resolve conflicts and instead push for reforms and development of the country.
"Sapat na ang mga diskusyon, debate, o pagsusulat upang maiparating ang kung anumang gusto nilang sabihin, huwag na huwag sumali sa mga kilusang ang hangad lamang ay kapangyarihan. (Discussions, debates or writing to air their grievances are enough. Don’t ever join the movements whose goal is power),” he said.
Citing the country has not truly flourished in the past 50 years, Genosa urged the youth to support the government's various projects and contribute to the country's growth in a positive way.
"Hindi ko talaga ginustong magsundalo. Marahil, ang pagiging sundalo ko ang paraan ng Panginoon upang maibalik ko ang aking utang na loob sa mga Pilipino (I really didn't plan to become a soldier. Maybe, being a soldier is God's way for me to show my debt of gratitude to the Filipinos)," he said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071147
Actor-reservist Guidicelli cites youth's role in peace-building
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): Actor-reservist Guidicelli cites youth's role in peace-building
Photo courtesy: Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs
In line with ongoing efforts to counter violent extremism, actor and Philippine Army (PA) reservist, probationary 2nd Lt. Matteo Guidicelli, on Tuesday went to Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao to talk about the youth's role in peace-building.
Around 500 persons participated in the forum, which was dubbed "Role of Youth in Peace Building and Preventing/Countering Violent Extremism", said PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala in a statement Thursday.
“Violence is not the key, violence is not the solution to anything,” said Guidicelli, even as he recognized the heartbreaking experiences of the people who witnessed innocent lives perish because of armed conflict.
"The Philippine Army recognizes the efforts of Matteo Guidicelli who volunteers his time and influence to spread the message of peace and unity among our people in support of preventing and countering violent extremism in the south. His spirit of volunteerism reflects the attitude of our soldiers who carry on their daily tasks in order to secure our people in all parts of the country," said Army chief, Lt. Gen. Albert Macairog of the actor's efforts.
Although his management forbids him to go to certain areas, Guidicelli's military commitment enabled him to visit a conflict-affected community in Mindanao.
"It is an honor to be in this place, gusto ko ipakita sa ibang tao na (I want to show other people), there are people here, there are people that need love here, there are people that need attention here. And with the help of the Armed Forces, they (the soldiers) are not just here to fight a war, they are here to make peace with the other people and really convince the people that we are one. Kapag nagsusuot kami ng uniform ng military, hindi naman ibig sabihin na pupunta lang kami sa giyera (When we wear military uniform, it doesn't necessarily mean that we are going to war). Ibig sabihin (It means), we want to promote peace. Ako nandito bilang isang (I am here as a) peace ambassador from the Philippine Army,” he added.
Guidicelli also called on the Filipino youth, particularly the participants from the municipalities of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Shariff Saydona Mustafa, Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, and Datu Piang, to value the education that the government provides as they aspire to become successful and contribute to national peace and development in the future.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071052
In line with ongoing efforts to counter violent extremism, actor and Philippine Army (PA) reservist, probationary 2nd Lt. Matteo Guidicelli, on Tuesday went to Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao to talk about the youth's role in peace-building.
Around 500 persons participated in the forum, which was dubbed "Role of Youth in Peace Building and Preventing/Countering Violent Extremism", said PA spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala in a statement Thursday.
“Violence is not the key, violence is not the solution to anything,” said Guidicelli, even as he recognized the heartbreaking experiences of the people who witnessed innocent lives perish because of armed conflict.
"The Philippine Army recognizes the efforts of Matteo Guidicelli who volunteers his time and influence to spread the message of peace and unity among our people in support of preventing and countering violent extremism in the south. His spirit of volunteerism reflects the attitude of our soldiers who carry on their daily tasks in order to secure our people in all parts of the country," said Army chief, Lt. Gen. Albert Macairog of the actor's efforts.
Although his management forbids him to go to certain areas, Guidicelli's military commitment enabled him to visit a conflict-affected community in Mindanao.
"It is an honor to be in this place, gusto ko ipakita sa ibang tao na (I want to show other people), there are people here, there are people that need love here, there are people that need attention here. And with the help of the Armed Forces, they (the soldiers) are not just here to fight a war, they are here to make peace with the other people and really convince the people that we are one. Kapag nagsusuot kami ng uniform ng military, hindi naman ibig sabihin na pupunta lang kami sa giyera (When we wear military uniform, it doesn't necessarily mean that we are going to war). Ibig sabihin (It means), we want to promote peace. Ako nandito bilang isang (I am here as a) peace ambassador from the Philippine Army,” he added.
Guidicelli also called on the Filipino youth, particularly the participants from the municipalities of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Shariff Saydona Mustafa, Mamasapano, Datu Salibo, and Datu Piang, to value the education that the government provides as they aspire to become successful and contribute to national peace and development in the future.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071052
Only left-leaning groups against mandatory ROTC: Detoyato
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): Only left-leaning groups against mandatory ROTC: Detoyato
Only left-leaning groups are opposed to the proposal to make the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) mandatory for Grade 11 and 12 students.
This was the reaction of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato when asked to comment on claims of some sectors that making ROTC mandatory for high school students will violate the Optional Protocol of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
"Right now, the only groups who oppose the reimplementation of mandatory ROTC are the left-leaning groups and they are just a noisy negligible group compared to those who support ROTC," he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Thursday.
The House of Representatives earlier voted 167-4-0 to approve House Bill 8961, which makes it mandatory for senior high school students to enroll in ROTC, on its third and final reading.
"While we respect international laws, we are also a sovereign country that has a lawmaking body that passes laws applicable to us. In the past, third year and 4th year high school students were already given a CAT (Citizens Army Training) required to all 4th year high school students and optional to third year (only those who wants to become officers in CAT when they reach 4th years) and mandatory ROTC to college students (usually four semesters)," Detoyato added.
House Bill 8961 seeks to amend for the purpose Republic Act 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act. Under the proposed measure, ROTC training would apply to “all students in Grades 11 and 12 in all senior high schools in public and private educational institutions.”
The bill also states that ROTC training shall be a requirement for graduation.
As provided, the following students may be exempted: those who are physically or psychologically unfit; those who have undergone or are undergoing similar military training; those who are chosen by their school to serve as the school’s varsity players in sports competition; and those who may be exempted from training for valid reasons as approved by the Department of National Defense, upon recommendation by an educational institution where the concerned student is enrolled.
The proposed measure also strictly prohibits the use of ROTC training for “political” objective and for teaching and instilling a particular political ideology on students. House Bill 8961 also specifically bans hazing and other forms of physical or mental abuse.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071067
Only left-leaning groups are opposed to the proposal to make the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) mandatory for Grade 11 and 12 students.
This was the reaction of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief Col. Noel Detoyato when asked to comment on claims of some sectors that making ROTC mandatory for high school students will violate the Optional Protocol of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
"Right now, the only groups who oppose the reimplementation of mandatory ROTC are the left-leaning groups and they are just a noisy negligible group compared to those who support ROTC," he said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Thursday.
The House of Representatives earlier voted 167-4-0 to approve House Bill 8961, which makes it mandatory for senior high school students to enroll in ROTC, on its third and final reading.
"While we respect international laws, we are also a sovereign country that has a lawmaking body that passes laws applicable to us. In the past, third year and 4th year high school students were already given a CAT (Citizens Army Training) required to all 4th year high school students and optional to third year (only those who wants to become officers in CAT when they reach 4th years) and mandatory ROTC to college students (usually four semesters)," Detoyato added.
House Bill 8961 seeks to amend for the purpose Republic Act 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act. Under the proposed measure, ROTC training would apply to “all students in Grades 11 and 12 in all senior high schools in public and private educational institutions.”
The bill also states that ROTC training shall be a requirement for graduation.
As provided, the following students may be exempted: those who are physically or psychologically unfit; those who have undergone or are undergoing similar military training; those who are chosen by their school to serve as the school’s varsity players in sports competition; and those who may be exempted from training for valid reasons as approved by the Department of National Defense, upon recommendation by an educational institution where the concerned student is enrolled.
The proposed measure also strictly prohibits the use of ROTC training for “political” objective and for teaching and instilling a particular political ideology on students. House Bill 8961 also specifically bans hazing and other forms of physical or mental abuse.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071067
AFP to deploy 1st Brigade Combat Team in Sulu for anti-ASG ops
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): AFP to deploy 1st Brigade Combat Team in Sulu for anti-ASG ops
The military will deploy the 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) to Sulu in line with ongoing efforts to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists.
"Now that the election period is over and national candidates have been proclaimed, we are redeploying forces to security challenged areas like Sulu Archipelago for focused military operations," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in an interview with reporters Thursday.
The IBCT consists of around 1,500 officers and enlisted personnel.
Arevalo said that there is no firm date yet on the deployment of the IBCT as the unit is still in Manila as of this posting.
"(Deployment of 1BCT) intends to add to the required personnel and equipment fill up for the newly created Army XI (11th) Infantry Division; part of regular rotation of units and troops," the AFP spokesperson stressed.
The 11th Infantry Division is expected to complete its equipment and manpower by 2022.
Once deployed in Sulu, the IBCT will be utilized to sustain the momentum and seize operational tempo to pursue the gains the military has attained in the fight against the ASG which has been sowing terror, death, and destruction in Sulu, he added.
The unit, along with other AFP units, will help secure Sulu and bring peace and development for Filipino Muslims residing in the province, Arevalo said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071085
The military will deploy the 1st Brigade Combat Team (1BCT) to Sulu in line with ongoing efforts to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) terrorists.
"Now that the election period is over and national candidates have been proclaimed, we are redeploying forces to security challenged areas like Sulu Archipelago for focused military operations," Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo said in an interview with reporters Thursday.
The IBCT consists of around 1,500 officers and enlisted personnel.
Arevalo said that there is no firm date yet on the deployment of the IBCT as the unit is still in Manila as of this posting.
"(Deployment of 1BCT) intends to add to the required personnel and equipment fill up for the newly created Army XI (11th) Infantry Division; part of regular rotation of units and troops," the AFP spokesperson stressed.
The 11th Infantry Division is expected to complete its equipment and manpower by 2022.
Once deployed in Sulu, the IBCT will be utilized to sustain the momentum and seize operational tempo to pursue the gains the military has attained in the fight against the ASG which has been sowing terror, death, and destruction in Sulu, he added.
The unit, along with other AFP units, will help secure Sulu and bring peace and development for Filipino Muslims residing in the province, Arevalo said.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071085
DOJ to start probe of Sagay massacre in Bacolod City
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): DOJ to start probe of Sagay massacre in Bacolod City
State prosecutors will hold a preliminary investigation hearing in Negros Occidental in connection with the 2018 Sagay City massacre case.
“We might go to Bacolod City on the first week of July to hold a preliminary investigation,” Assistant State Prosecutor Ferdinand Fernandez confirmed to reporters Thursday, after noting that none of the respondents appeared on the last scheduled hearing at the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Manila this week.
Fernandez said the respondents had trouble traveling to Manila to attend the preliminary investigation.
“We will give them the opportunity to face the accusations against them,” said Fernandez, who pointed out the respondents will no longer have any excuse not to appear if the hearing is held in Bacolod City.
Nine members of the National Federation of Sugar Workers (NFSW) were killed inside Hacienda Nene in Sagay City, Negros Occidental on the night of Oct. 20, 2018.
Authorities have filed murder complaints against those suspected to be involved in the massacre, including Rene Manlangit and Rogelio Arquillo.
The victims were allegedly enticed to join the NFSW and were manipulated by the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071111
State prosecutors will hold a preliminary investigation hearing in Negros Occidental in connection with the 2018 Sagay City massacre case.
“We might go to Bacolod City on the first week of July to hold a preliminary investigation,” Assistant State Prosecutor Ferdinand Fernandez confirmed to reporters Thursday, after noting that none of the respondents appeared on the last scheduled hearing at the Department of Justice (DOJ) in Manila this week.
Fernandez said the respondents had trouble traveling to Manila to attend the preliminary investigation.
“We will give them the opportunity to face the accusations against them,” said Fernandez, who pointed out the respondents will no longer have any excuse not to appear if the hearing is held in Bacolod City.
Nine members of the National Federation of Sugar Workers (NFSW) were killed inside Hacienda Nene in Sagay City, Negros Occidental on the night of Oct. 20, 2018.
Authorities have filed murder complaints against those suspected to be involved in the massacre, including Rene Manlangit and Rogelio Arquillo.
The victims were allegedly enticed to join the NFSW and were manipulated by the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071111
AFP condemns NPA mine attack on Bukidnon convoy
From the Philippine News Agency (May 30, 2019): AFP condemns NPA mine attack on Bukidnon convoy
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) denounced the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) for detonating an anti-personnel mine near a convoy of vehicles carrying troops, local volunteers and foreign observers who were passing by Sitio Nasandigan, Barangay Kalabugao, Impasug-ong town, Bukidnon Thursday.
"We denounce strongly this attack on foreign observers who were in (the) country to visit various projects of Indigenous Peoples (IP) in the locality. They are non-combatant civilians," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo told reporters.
At least 11 people, including seven soldiers, were wounded in the incident.
Foreign observers from IP communities in Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia, and Malaysia went to Sitio Mintapod, Barangay Hagpa, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon to observe the activity of IP community volunteers belonging to Higaonon Amamag Malandang Olandok Gagaw (HAMOG), a non-government organization which promotes cultural preservation in the area.
The group is also scheduled to have a forest visitation for their “PAUNLAY TA AGHIMICU” (forest visitation phase II).
HAMOG sought the assistance of the Impasug-ong IP Mandatory Representatives and the Philippine Army for security during their activity.
"That is a totally detestable act by the CPP-NPA that deserves widespread, global condemnation. It only shows that contrary to their portrayed role, they are anti-IP progress. The CPP-NPA wants our rural folks to remain poor and dejected," Arevalo added.
He said Filipinos should all unite and reject these CPP-NPA terrorists who are menaces to society and puts the country in a bad light by their deliberate use of anti-personnel mines.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071135
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) denounced the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA) for detonating an anti-personnel mine near a convoy of vehicles carrying troops, local volunteers and foreign observers who were passing by Sitio Nasandigan, Barangay Kalabugao, Impasug-ong town, Bukidnon Thursday.
"We denounce strongly this attack on foreign observers who were in (the) country to visit various projects of Indigenous Peoples (IP) in the locality. They are non-combatant civilians," AFP spokesperson, Marine Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo told reporters.
At least 11 people, including seven soldiers, were wounded in the incident.
Foreign observers from IP communities in Vietnam, Myanmar, Indonesia, and Malaysia went to Sitio Mintapod, Barangay Hagpa, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon to observe the activity of IP community volunteers belonging to Higaonon Amamag Malandang Olandok Gagaw (HAMOG), a non-government organization which promotes cultural preservation in the area.
The group is also scheduled to have a forest visitation for their “PAUNLAY TA AGHIMICU” (forest visitation phase II).
HAMOG sought the assistance of the Impasug-ong IP Mandatory Representatives and the Philippine Army for security during their activity.
"That is a totally detestable act by the CPP-NPA that deserves widespread, global condemnation. It only shows that contrary to their portrayed role, they are anti-IP progress. The CPP-NPA wants our rural folks to remain poor and dejected," Arevalo added.
He said Filipinos should all unite and reject these CPP-NPA terrorists who are menaces to society and puts the country in a bad light by their deliberate use of anti-personnel mines.
The CPP-NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1071135